Going through the Disaster Management Act 2005 (DMA – 2005), we have seen the authorities and funds created under the law. Now we focus our attention on the offences and penalties under the Act and other matters related to it.
Offences Under the Law:
Sections 51 to 58 of the Act lay down what constitutes an offence in terms of obstruction of functions under the Act, false claim for relief, misappropriation of relief materials or funds, issuance of false warning, failure of an officer to perform the duty imposed on him under the Act without due permission or lawful excuse or his connivance at contravention of the provisions of the Act. The clauses also provide for penalties for these offences.
Obstruction & Disobedience:
A person who obstructs any officer or employee in the discharge of his functions under this Act or refuses to comply with any direction given by or on behalf of him under this Act commits an offence. On conviction, such person shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term up to one year or with fine, or with both. If such obstruction or refusal to comply with directions results in loss of lives or imminent danger thereof, the convicted person shall be punishable with imprisonment up to two years.
Fr Ravi Sagar SJ
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